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Italy

Christmas in Sorrento

Program No. 23713RJ
Celebrate the Christmas holiday in Sorrento! Attend classical concerts, explore the ancient city of Pompeii and experience the beauty of Capri and the Amalfi Coast with a local expert.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
9 days
Program Begins
Sorrento
Program Concludes
Sorrento
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16 ( 7B, 5L, 4D )
Activity Level
Spending the Christmas holiday in Sorrento isn’t just a good idea — it’s a great idea. With local experts and other like-minded learners, explore this beautiful region of Italy and the ancient history that has shaped its modern identity. As you admire the turquoise waters along the Amalfi Coast, imagine the historic events that so pristinely preserved the sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, explore the former home of Swedish physician Axel Munthe on the island of Capri, and learn about the art of woodworking at the Tarsia Museum. Along the way, enjoy classical concerts and ring in the holiday with a Christmas lunch. It’s all the perfect way to say Buon Natale! (Merry Christmas!)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Join a local expert for field trips to Pompeii, Herculaneum and enjoy an in-depth look into the region’s ancient history.
  • Explore the beautiful island of Capri and the Amalfi Coast with an expert, stopping to explore piazzas, sample regional cuisine and learn about the Villa of San Michele.
  • Drive through the Sorrento countryside to visit a working farm, learn how mozzarella is made and assist in the preparation of your farewell dinner.
All Experts
Please Note:
These experts may not be available for every date of the program
Michela Porcelli was awarded an advanced degree in linguistic anthropology from the University of Naples. Fluent in English, Swedish, Spanish and French, Michela studied in the U.S. at the University of California Santa Barbara. Currently, she lives in Naples where she is involved in several research projects in linguistics at the university there.
Domenico Nucci studied Greek, Latin, physics and philosophy during high school in Naples. He earned an associate's in art history, and later a degree at the Università di Napoli Federico II, and further studies in environmental and humanitarian legislation at American University. He then worked for many years in aid and reconstruction programs in Africa and Asia. When not on Road Scholar programs, he works in fruit tree care, home renovation, and property management.
Vincenzo Coppola is an ethnomusicologist and licensed guide for the Amalfi Coast area. He has a passion for music in the Neapolitan tradition. A lecturer at Naples University and Conservatory of Music, his seminars include Opera and Oriental Traits in Neapolitan popular music and the Japanese Theater of Noh.
Michelle Bassett was born in England and spent most of her adult life there. She has a degree in applied social science from the Open University and is a qualified human resources professional. In 2011, Michelle moved to Italy and began working as a group manager and event planner. She and her husband live on a small farm near Sorrento with olive and lemon groves, a vegetable garden, and a dog. Michelle enjoys working on the farm, running, and reading.
Enrica Guida studied at a classical lyceum and earned a degree in Political Science and Economy with honors from the University of Naples. She honed her English language skills at Cambridge University, England, and is also fluent in French and Spanish. She continued studies in Greek and Roman history, archaeology of Magna Grecia, and Pompeian antiquities at the University of Naples. She is a member of the Amici di Pompeii Association. Licensed by the Region of Campania, Enrica loves sharing the region’s history and culture.
Sabina Gargiulo resides in Piano di Sorrento, and is a licensed regional guide specializing in the Campania region. Holding a degree in law from the esteemed Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Sabina possesses a diverse professional background encompassing legal consultancy, sales management, and event coordination. Her profound love for exploration and adventure fuels her passion for travel, with a particular focus on unraveling the rich tapestry of history, art, and culture that Campania has to offer. Sabina speaks Italian, English, Spanish, and French.
Irene Rios, born in Brazil, spent five years living and studying in the United Kingdom before relocating in 2003 to Italy, where she settled in Naples. With over 25 years of experience in the tourist and hospitality sectors, she is fluent in English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish. Irene holds qualifications as a children's teacher and has worked as a freelance group leader in Italy. Additionally, she indulges her passion for photography as a freelance photographer, enjoying hiking, cooking, and meeting new people.
Ilaria Fiore, a native of Naples, holds a degree in classical literature and archaeology. Following her undergraduate studies, she pursued further specialization in archaeology at the School of Specialization in Rome. Ilaria undertook internships in museology and earned a master's in digital technologies applied to cultural heritage. With a rich background in fieldwork across Italy and Egypt, she contributed to various scientific publications. Transitioning to the travel sector, Ilaria serves as a licensed excursion leader and archaeologist in Campania while engaging in school educational initiatives.
Alessandra Sarappa gained a wealth of cultural exposure through her previous role as a cabin crew member for a British company, traveling extensively. She honed her English at Rice University in Texas and resided there for three years. Fluent in French and her native Italian, Alessandra adores exploring Sorrento's hidden gems, fueled by her love for nature. Embracing her passion, she transitioned into a group leader and environmental guide. Alessandra's artistic flair shines through her photography, capturing the nuanced essence of local life.
Sabrina Schots's journey encompasses diverse experiences, beginning with a degree in political dcience and years as a local guide and ESL teacher. Transitioning into travel consultancy, she eventually found her niche as a content creator for an Italian travel company, focusing on history, culture, and mythology. Her childhood, steeped in Homeric myths from her mother and captivating tales from her father, instilled in her the essence of storytelling. Sabrina's mission is to craft narratives that entertain and resonate deeply with her audience.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 4 miles per day at a moderate pace of 2 mph over uneven terrain, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones, steep inclines, loose gravel and dirt paths. Standing up to 4 hours per day. Program will require approximately 18 miles of walking over 8 days. Must be able to use stairs without handrails in order to navigate field trip sites. Elevator us is limited or restricted in historic sites. Program-related travel and transfers will be via bus, boat, convertible, and funicular. Sheltered waiting areas may not be available at docks. Due to unavoidable stairs and pacing wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated on this program. Must be physically capable of participating in all planned program activities.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Books and Resources
View Full List
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
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Call 800-454-5768
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Peace of Mind

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Assurance Plan

Road Scholar is committed to the well-being of every participant, whether on a program in the United States or abroad. That’s why all participants are covered under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan, which provides 24-hour assistance in the event of an emergency during your program, as well as insurance for emergency medical evacuation.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.